I recently read This is Your Brain on Joy by Dr. Earl Henslin. I was drawn to this book because it was written by a psychotherapist, but from a Christian perspective. I was intrigued to hear his viewpoint on relating prayer & God’s will with traditional therapy.

Dr. Henslin has delivered a very well written book on his studies and the work of Dr. Daniel G. Amen. It defines how your brain functions in easy to understand language. He goes into great detail to discuss Dr. Amen’s SPECT (single photon emission computerized tomography) scans and their importance in treating his patients.

The book covers some of the issues that can arise in the different areas of the brain and how those areas can be treated. And while often people of faith avoid the topic of medications to treat mental issues, Dr. Henslin was not afraid to talk about medications as a course of treatment in some cases. However he also recommended alternative to taking medicines, such as supplements, proper diet and exercise.

Overall, I would recommend this book. The “Amen Brain Checklist” on page 33 and subsequent answer key is worth the price of the book. The checklist will help you analyze yourself and may lead to some unique self awareness.